Downy and Hairy Woodpeckers are commonly found in woods and like to visit feeder areas where there are suet and seeds to feed on.[1] Both have a similar black and white appearance and can be tricky to identify. Follow these steps to determine the different species next time you see them.

Steps

Method1

Telling the Difference Based on Appearance

1

Look for a key difference in bill size. This is the easiest way to tell the two species apart.

The Hairy Woodpecker's bill is long and chisel-like, and almost the same length as its head.

In contrast, the Downy's bill is short and dainty, roughly 1/3 the length of the bird's head.

If this is difficult to gauge, a good trick is to imagine turning each bird's bill around, so that it points toward the back of the bird's head. How far across the head does it appear to extend? If it is the length of the head, you are looking at a Hairy Woodpecker. [2]

2

Determine differences in overall size. The Downy Woodpecker is the smaller of the two, while the Hairy Woodpecker can be up to 50% larger. However, when viewing an individual bird, it can be difficult to judge this difference in size. Here are some ways to do this:

For comparison – the Downy is roughly the same size as a House Sparrow, while the Hairy is similar in size to a Robin. [3]

The male and female of each species are roughly the same size, so if you are looking at two woodpeckers of different sizes, the smaller is likely to be a Downy and the larger a Hairy. [4]

3

Look for differences in color pattern. Both birds are black and white but there are some key differences in the pattern of their feathers.

Listen for different drum sounds. The males and females of both species use their bills to drum on trees as a means of communication. However, the Downy's drum is slightly slower than that of a Hairy, about 17 beats per seconds as opposed to the Hairy's 25 beats per second. [12]

3

Pay attention to different eating habits. Both species primarily eat insects, along with some fruit and seeds. But there are some differences in how the two species feed that may help you identify them.

Because of their smaller size, Downy Woodpeckers can eat foods that larger woodpeckers can't access, for example insects in the stems of larger weeds. Hairy Woodpeckers never feed on weeds.

Hairy woodpeckers like to drink the sweet sap of trees. They may even peck into sugar cane to drink the sugary juice within. [13]

4

Consider differences in location. This can be tricky because both are found in woodlands and may often flock together. However, the Downy Woodpecker favors smaller branches while the Hairy spends more time on large branches or trunks. [14]

Method3

Learning More About Identifying Birds

1

Use a field guide. Field guides provide information about the different species of birds you may be able to see in your region. There are many to choose from, and some are available online.[15] However, some people prefer to purchase a hard copy of the field guide with illustrations or pictures to help you in your identification process.

2

Invest in a pair of binoculars. A good pair of binoculars with decent magnification (x7 or x8) can be a handy tool when trying to identify different birds. For example, it may be very difficult to spot the subtle differences in color pattern between the Downy and the Hairy Woodpecker without the use of binoculars.

3

Set up an attractive feeder. Purchase a wire or mesh feeder (to keep out the squirrels) and set it up with feed that both species of woodpecker enjoy.

Both Downy and Hairy Woodpeckers feed on suet, which is a great source of protein and fat for them. This is particularly necessary during the cold winter months.

Seeds, especially sunflower seeds, are also a popular choice.

Be aware that because of their diminutive stature Downy's will often wait until other birds are away from the feeder to use it. Hairy's can be more aggressive. [16]

4

Take photographs for comparison. If you have time and a relatively high quality camera, taking photographs of the different birds allows you to keep a visual record and undertake a more detailed comparison. It also affords you a chance to examine the birds when they are still, unlike in the wild, where they are often in flight or moving.

5

Respect the birds. Woodpeckers are an essential part of the regional ecosystem, they help to control the insect population and make nest cavities that are used by other species of birds and mammals who can not excavate them on their own.[17] You should take care not to disrupt the birds or their habitat.

The first principle of the American Birding Association is that bird-watchers should promote the welfare of birds and their environment, be mindful of this when you are trying to identify different bird species.[18]